Penticton & Naramata: Okanagan Lake Sailing Tour with Swim & Paddleboard

Sailing okanagan lake from penticton or naramata with swimming stops

You’ll sail a big yacht across Okanagan Lake from Penticton or Naramata, steering if you want or just relaxing as vineyards drift by. Swim straight off the boat or try paddleboarding while your local guide shares stories and tips. Bring your own snacks and drinks. Everything else is sorted for you. It’s easygoing but feels special in ways you don’t expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Four-hour sailing adventure on Okanagan Lake

• Board 46' sailing yacht Anam Cara
• Receive hands-on sailing instruction
• Sail on sunny Okanagan Lake
• Adjust sails and steer the boat
• Anchor for swim or paddleboard
• Relax with drinks and enjoy scenery

The experience

I didn’t expect the quiet. The wind picked up just as we left Penticton’s marina, not loud, but that kind of hush you get when everyone’s waiting for something to happen. Our guide, Dave (he’s lived here forever), handed me the wheel for a bit. I was nervous at first (this boat is huge, like 46 feet), but he just grinned and said, “You’ll feel it.” And I did, eventually. The lake was that weird blue-green you only see in Canada, with the Naramata Bench vineyards sliding by on one side and wild hills on the other. Someone opened a can of something cold behind me. I could smell sunscreen and lake water.

We anchored out where the water looked extra clear: Dave said it’s always warm by July, which I half-believed until my toes hit it (not bad though). A couple of us jumped in. Someone else tried paddleboarding and wobbled so much we all laughed. There wasn’t any pressure to do anything. You could just stretch out on deck with your drink if you wanted. Dave told stories about storms he’s seen here and pointed out which winery was which along the shore. He even let us help with the sails if we felt like it (I mostly watched after my first try, ropes are trickier than they look).

By the time we turned back toward Penticton, the sun had shifted and everything looked softer somehow. I kept thinking about how different it feels to be on water instead of just looking at it from a winery patio. My hair smelled like lake air for hours after. Not sure why that sticks with me.

What’s included

Your day includes hands-on sailing instruction (if you want), plenty of time to relax on deck, sparkling water to drink, use of paddleboards and all safety equipment like PFDs, plus fridge space for whatever snacks or drinks you bring along before heading back to shore.

Before you book

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (16 to 85 years) · Child (8 to 15 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Winds of Change Experiences

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

52 verified traveler reviews

5 ★52

4 ★0

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (8 to 15 years). Children under 8 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the Okanagan Lake sailing tour?

The sailing tour lasts about four hours on Okanagan Lake.

Do I need sailing experience for this day trip?

No experience needed. Your local guide will show you what to do or you can just relax.

Can we swim during the sailing tour?

Yes, there are stops for swimming or paddleboarding off the boat.

Is food or drink provided?

Sparkling water is included. Bring your own snacks and drinks (beer or wine allowed).

Where does the sailing tour start?

The tour departs from either Penticton or Naramata in British Columbia.

What should I bring for this Okanagan Lake sailing trip?

Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, layers for warmth, running/tennis/water shoes (no sandals), snacks and drinks.

Are paddleboards available during the tour?

Yes, paddleboards are provided for guests to use during swimming stops.

Is this sailing trip suitable for all fitness levels?

It’s suitable for most people but not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.